02324, Bridgewater, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 02324, Bridgewater, Massachusetts is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 02324

The residents of the 02324 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Hanson, Massachusetts, have a range of healthcare options available, though proximity to larger metropolitan areas significantly expands their choices. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like hospital quality, accessibility, wait times, and specialized services. This assessment is not a direct ranking but aims to provide a comprehensive overview to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access for 02324 residents often lies in the flagship hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. These institutions typically offer the broadest range of services and are subject to rigorous quality assessments. One crucial metric is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating system. This system provides a publicly available, easily digestible measure of hospital performance based on various quality measures.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth (Plymouth, MA):** Located approximately 15-20 minutes from Hanson, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth is a significant healthcare provider for the region. As of late 2023, it holds a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects a complex assessment, considering factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a busy emergency department, surgical suites, and specialized care units.

**Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital (Brockton, MA):** Situated roughly 15-20 minutes from Hanson, Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital is another key player. Its CMS star rating, as of late 2023, is 3 stars. This hospital provides a wide array of services, including a well-regarded cardiology program and a significant focus on community health initiatives. The hospital's emergency department is a critical resource for the area.

**South Shore Hospital (Weymouth, MA):** While a bit further afield, approximately a 30-minute drive, South Shore Hospital in Weymouth is a major regional hospital. It is affiliated with Mass General Brigham and is a high-performing hospital. As of late 2023, it holds a 4-star CMS rating. This hospital boasts a strong reputation for its specialty services, including cancer care, cardiology, and orthopedics. Its proximity to the Route 3 corridor makes it relatively accessible for many Hanson residents.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of access and efficiency. These times fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients. Publicly available data on ER wait times is often limited, but it is possible to gather some insights.

Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth and Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital, being closer to Hanson, are often the first port of call for emergencies. Patients should expect wait times to vary, and it's advisable to check real-time wait times (if available) through hospital websites or third-party apps before heading to the ER. These wait times can range from under an hour to several hours during peak times.

South Shore Hospital, due to its larger size and broader service offerings, may sometimes have longer wait times, but its resources can also lead to faster processing of more complex cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general hospital services, the availability of specialized centers is a key consideration.

**Cardiology:** Both Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital and South Shore Hospital have well-established cardiology programs, offering a range of diagnostic and interventional procedures. Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth also provides cardiac care.

**Cancer Care:** South Shore Hospital has a comprehensive cancer center, offering radiation oncology, medical oncology, and supportive services. Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital also provides cancer care services.

**Orthopedics:** All three hospitals offer orthopedic services, including surgery and rehabilitation. South Shore Hospital is particularly known for its orthopedic program.

**Maternity Services:** All three hospitals have maternity units, providing prenatal care, labor and delivery services, and postpartum care.

**Mental Health:** Access to mental health services is a critical aspect of overall health. All three hospitals have mental health services, including inpatient and outpatient care. However, access to timely mental health appointments can be a challenge, and residents may need to seek referrals or explore community mental health centers.

**Telehealth Statistics and Availability:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It expands access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or who live in more rural areas.

All three hospitals offer telehealth services to varying degrees. Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth, Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital, and South Shore Hospital have expanded their telehealth offerings, including virtual visits with primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals. The specific availability of telehealth services varies by specialty and insurance coverage. Patients should check with their insurance providers and the hospitals directly to determine the available telehealth options. The utilization of telehealth services has increased significantly in recent years, and hospitals are continuing to invest in and expand their telehealth platforms.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Accessibility is a significant factor. While Hanson is relatively well-situated, residents may face transportation challenges. Public transportation options are limited in Hanson, and reliance on personal vehicles is common. The proximity of the hospitals to major roadways, such as Route 3, is a benefit. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can impact travel times.

**Other Healthcare Providers in the Area:**

Beyond the major hospitals, residents of 02324 have access to a network of other healthcare providers, including:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** Numerous primary care practices are located in and around Hanson, providing essential preventative care and referrals to specialists.
* **Specialists:** Specialists in various fields, such as dermatology, gastroenterology, and endocrinology, are available in the surrounding towns.
* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located within a short driving distance, offering convenient care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.
* **Community Health Centers:** Community health centers provide affordable and accessible healthcare services, particularly for underserved populations.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of 02324 is a complex equation. The area benefits from proximity to several hospitals with a range of services. However, the CMS star ratings suggest room for improvement in some areas. Emergency room wait times can be a concern, and access to specialized care, while available, may require travel. The increasing availability of telehealth services provides a valuable alternative for some healthcare needs. Residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and transportation options when making healthcare decisions. Researching specific physician reviews, checking hospital websites for the most up-to-date information, and consulting with their primary care physicians are essential steps in navigating the healthcare landscape. The overall health score, therefore, is "Good," with strong potential for improvement, particularly in patient experience and access to timely care.